ASPEN: Anti Stigma Programme European Network

Background/Objectives: WHO predicts that the number of individuals affected with depressive syndromes will be higher than any other health problem within 20 years. Indeed by 2030 the global burden of disease from depression will be greater than for any other disorder. Despite its high prevalence, depression remains one of the most under-diagnosed and undertreated health conditions within the primary care setting. One of the major obstacles is to address the serious issues of stigma and self-stigma about mental illness. Many people with depression experience stigma caused by other people's knowledge, attitudes, a…